Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Back To School Blues

As I walked a little further, it came clear into my vision that what I was seeing from afar, was truly what I thought it was.

A school bus.

How is it that summer went by so quickly, that it has become "back to school" time already?

Many adults, with or without children, have a feeling of nostalgia when September rolls around. After years & years of elementary, high school and post secondary education, you almost expect that butterfly feeling in your stomach that comes in September. You remember certain school years, heading off to college or university, and just what that first day of school felt like.

For parents, it may be a time of joy sending their kids back (Hello, Staples commercials "It's the most wonderful time of the year!") and for others, there may be sadness, or the Back To School Blues. It may be difficult watching your children grow up before your eyes, sending them into higher grades, hoping that they are safe & learning, hope that they aren't being bullied, hoping they aren't the bully, wanting them to experience sports, and science, math & drama.

For students of any age, there can be excitement, let down of having to go back, anxiety, fear, stress, and many other emotions. While someone can say "You'll be FINE!" a million times over, the emotions that students feel are very real.

If your child (4 years old or 20 years old) is experiencing some concerning emotions about school, there are some great ways to help them through it.

Help them find an activity that they are passionate about when it comes to school. Is it soccer? Is it art? Maybe they have a passion for photography and being on the Yearbook Committee would be ideal. Whatever the passion is, encourage them to follow it!

Check in daily with them, with open ended questions, ex: "Tell me about your day" or "What did you focus on in geography today" or "Tell me the hardest part of your day, and then tell me the best part of your day". Using open ended questions will get you more than a "Good, yes, no or fine" answer.

Watch for signs of stress. Stress could come from a teacher, another student, homework, a subject they are having a hard time with or with a relationship.

Make sure they do their homework! Checking in on homework daily could seem like a daunting task, but it'll save the "I didn't know it was due" or "I forgot about it till right now" excuses. We've all used them!

Listen. It's human nature to want to offer advice, however, listening will do so much more! Intervene when necessary, but watch them learn & grow through every life experience.

If you or another parent needs someone to talk to about their school aged children, we're always here to listen.

If you're a student reading this, and you need someone to talk to, you can call us day or night confidentially to talk about ANYTHING you want to talk about!